Complaint Investigation Report

Some staff were assisting clients with lunch. C1 was sitting in the grass enjoying the sun then all of a sudden, law enforcement was present. An outside source reported that the clients were at the mall’s food court unsupervised. The outside source reported a client fell, and others with that client assisted the client to get up. In addition, the outside source asked one of the adult’s some questions and that person presented as staff. That same adult was present and assisted when the client fell. The outside source was unable to confirm which adults were clients and which were staff.

It was also alleged that staff did not treat clients with dignity by yelling, biting, and pushing clients. An outside source reported that when a client bites a particular staff member, the staff bites the client back. The outside source later reported that was a misunderstanding and the staff do not bite the clients. Staff denied not treating the clients with dignity. There was one client that was able to communicate and expressed the allegations were false. Other clients were interviewed, however, due to their cognitive ability, the interviews were unsuccessful.

It was also alleged that staff did not meet client’s needs by not providing water and snacks. Staff confirmed the clients bring their own water bottles to program. If the client wants more water, it’s available at the facility. The facility also has snacks available, but the client’s responsible party provides the client’s snacks. The facility has available water bottles and a water dispenser. Client interview confirmed they are allowed to have water whenever they want. However, they have to ask staff to get it because they don't want client's in the kitchen for safety reasons.

It was also alleged that staff did not ensure clients were engaged in activities. It was reported the staff were taking the client's computer time away from them as punishment. The administrator explained all clients have the right to use the computer. However, some clients don’t have the cognitive ability to use the computer. They limit the computer times so that other clients may have a turn. Also, it’s limited so that the client will engage in other activities to assist them with independence. Client’s are allowed to use the computer during their scheduled time. A client reported there are no computer issues, they all have assigned times to share the computer and use it. Continued on LIC 9099C.